Mirrorfin hatchlings require a lot of time and practice to master illusions, starting only with amorphous blobs. While a small amount of gold is with them in the egg, they will burn through it quickly and need to find new sources on their own. Those seeking precious metals will check nearby streams for mirrorfin nurseries, as large numbers of them are a sure sign of gold in the water.

Legend says the a gilded mirrorfin will bring great wealth to its owner, but the few breeders who specialize in these exotic fish would argue the opposite. Their bright horns and flecked scales are actually coated in precious metals, which they must consume to grow and thrive. It also seems to fuel their illusion magic, as their gilding quickly fades when it is used. But the illusions are dazzling while they last because the mirrorfin creates illusions of itself, turning these usually solitary fish into a glittering school.